Question 1

Q: Who can benefit from cosmetic tattooing services at Jade Clay beauty?

Accepted Answer

A: Cosmetic tattooing at Jade Clay beauty is ideal for individuals seeking long-lasting enhancement of their natural features. It benefits those with sparse or uneven eyebrows, people experiencing hair loss due to medical conditions, busy individuals wanting to save time on daily makeup, and clients looking to correct asymmetries or enhance lips and eyeliner with subtle, natural-looking results. Our professional approach ensures personalized treatments tailored to each client’s unique features and lifestyle, providing confidence and convenience through expertly applied semi-permanent makeup.

Question 2

Q: Does cosmetic tattooing hurt, and how does Jade Clay beauty ensure a comfortable experience?

Accepted Answer

A: At Jade Clay beauty, we understand that many clients wonder about pain when considering cosmetic tattooing. While some sensation is normal—similar to light scratching or mild discomfort—our skilled artists prioritise your comfort by using a high-quality numbing agent during the procedure. This significantly reduces any pain or irritation, making the experience much more tolerable than you might expect. We also take the time to create a relaxing environment and tailor each treatment to your individual pain threshold, ensuring you feel calm and cared for throughout. Rest assured, cosmetic tattooing at Jade Clay beauty is designed to enhance your beauty with minimal discomfort, leaving you thrilled with the natural, lasting results.

Question 3

How Long Does Semi /Permanent Makeup Last?

Accepted Answer

Semi / permanent makeup lasts anything from 9 to 24 months + but it’s difficult to generalise because the fading process is dependent on so many variables – for instance, if you love to tan, it’s likely that your enhancement will fade faster.
We recommend that you return to refresh your enhancement every 12-15 months.

Question 4

Q: What should I consider if I have oily or combination skin and want to get microblading at Jade Clay beauty?

Accepted Answer

A: At Jade Clay beauty, we understand that oily and combination skin types can affect the longevity and appearance of microblading results. If you have oily or combination skin and are considering microblading (manual hair stroke technique), it is important to know that excess oil can cause pigment to fade more quickly or blur the crispness of the strokes. Our experienced technicians will conduct a thorough skin assessment during your consultation to determine if microblading is suitable for you or if alternative techniques like powder-brow shading might offer better results. We also provide tailored aftercare instructions designed to control oil production and maintain the pigment for as long as possible. By choosing Jade Clay beauty, you benefit from expert advice and personalized treatments to achieve natural-looking, lasting brows while accounting for your specific skin type.

Question 5

What is the difference between MICROBLADING (MANUAL TATTOO) and MACHINE METHOD

Accepted Answer

There is no difference in the permanency of manually (microbladed) or machine tattooed eyebrows. They're just different ways of implanting the ink into the skin. Both techniques are forms of cosmetic tattooing that aim to create or fill in eyebrows. One technique doesn't hurt more than the other, but the level of pain you feel will be dictated by your own pain threshold. Most clients are happily surprised by how little it hurts and many comment that threading, plucking or waxing is worse. I do apply numbing gels once the skin is open to keep you more comfortable throughout. The main difference between the two techniques is that machine method brows work on a wider range of skin types. Manually microbladed eyebrows are more suited to dry skin. Your skin will be assessed beforehand so I can make a recommendation of which technique and style will work best for you in the long run. Because your face is naturally oilier compared to the rest of your body, and coupled with this being a delicate tattoo to heal, two sessions spaced 6 weeks apart are needed for best healed results. Some clients, especially those who; use sunbeds, sunbathe, don’t use sun protection, have sun damaged skin, have oily skin, smoke, sweat a lot (from exercise, saunas etc), have a fast metabolism, have an iron deficiency, take regular medications, use chemical peels or anti aging products or harsh exfoliants, may need more than 1 touch up session to achieve their desired results. They may also need more regular top ups to keep their brows vibrant.

Question 6

How semi-permanent / permanent is it?

Accepted Answer

Semi-permanent means it will fade over time, and that if you want to keep your brows looking vibrant, top up appointments will be needed to maintain this look. Semi-permanent DOES NOT mean it will 100% fade away. You may always be left with remnants of ink under your skin, even 10 years from now. Everyone's bodies will process the ink differently, as well as your lifestyle choices affecting the longevity of the tattoo. Cosmetic tattooing is still a tattoo, so before anyone tells you any differently, please bare in mind that whether or not you refresh your eyebrows annually, you may still be left with a shadow if you don't wish to continue with annual top ups.

Question 7

What is microblading aka manual technique brows?

Accepted Answer

• Done manually with a pen-like device that holds tiny sterile disposable needles (NOT A BLADE!)
• Natural looking, mimicking hairs.
•  Detailed, delicate style, working best only for dry/normal skin.
• Super soft healed results.
•  Great for clients who are more nervous or wanting to start out softer.
• Annual top ups are usually between 9 & 12 months (once a year is recommended).

Question 8

What are machine methods, ombre or combination brows?"

Accepted Answer

• Created with a pen machine that operates more like a traditional tattoo machine.
• ombré ,more like makeup, looking fuller and filled in, yet this can be done super delicate and soft also.
• Less detailed style working for all skin types (oily, combination, textured skin etc).
• Results can be soft or bold depending on desired outcome.
•  Great for clients who want to upgrade from microblading.
• Machine brows are a good solution for covering old SPMU.
• Annual top ups are usually between 12 & 24 months

Question 9

Q: Why does permanent cosmetic tattooing fade over time?

Accepted Answer

A: Permanent cosmetic tattooing can fade over time due to several natural and external factors. The pigments are deposited into the upper layers of the skin, which constantly renews itself, causing gradual pigment breakdown and fading. Exposure to sunlight and UV rays accelerates this fading by breaking down pigment molecules. Additionally, individual skin types, lifestyle factors such as skincare routines, and the body’s immune response contribute to how long the tattoo retains its vibrancy. Understanding these factors helps clients at Jade Clay beauty maintain realistic expectations and schedule appropriate touch-ups to keep their enhanced features looking fresh and natural.

Question 10

How Long Is The Recovery Time For A Semi /Permanent Make Up Treatment?

Accepted Answer

There’s no real downtime and most of the treatments certainly don’t stop you doing your normal day-to-day activities. You experience a little bit of swelling and redness , this isn’t hugely common but it’s not unheard off. When it comes to the healing time , most are healed within 10 days to a max of 14days. Oiler skin tends to heal faster than dryer skin in some cases.

Question 11

What Will I Look Like Immediately After My Semi Permanent Makeup Treatment?

Accepted Answer

You’ll have minimal redness and for some swelling for the first 24 hours and for 4-10 days the colour will be much darker , approximately 40% than the look you want to achieve – a bit like wearing heavy makeup. The colour will also appear much redder than it will once it's healed , you have to trust the process.

Question 12

Can I Have An MRI Scan If I Have Semi Permanent Makeup?

Accepted Answer

There is little or no potential for irritation resulting from MRI scanning however, with that said it is sensible to inform your MRI technician that you have micropigmentation.

Question 13

Does Semi Permanent Makeup Work On Black And Asian Skins?

Accepted Answer

Semi permanent makeup looks great in black and Asian skin. However, as with conventional makeup muted-natural colours will not be as visible, especially in the case of lips - so we recommend that either vibrant, or darker shades be used to best showcase your enhancement and your complexion.

Question 14

Can I have permanent makeup whilst pregnant or breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

No!! You must also wait until you have finished breastfeeding before having any form of semi / permanent makeup .

Question 15

CAN ANYONE HAVE SEMI-PERMANENT MAKEUP?

Accepted Answer

The short answer is no. Whilst it’s suitable for most people, there are certain reasons that we can’t treat everyone. Before undergoing a treatment with myself ,clients are always made aware that certain contraindications can prevent me from proceeding. These include those that:
* Have high blood pressure or a heart condition
* Take blood-thinners such as aspirin or similar medication
* Have diabetes
* Are pregnant or lactating
* Have glaucoma
* Have herpes simplex
* Suffer from certain skin conditions e.g. rashes, blisters, psoriasis or eczema
* Take steroids such as cortisone, Accutane, Retin-A or Renova
* Have an allergy to makeup
* Have acute acne in the treatment area
* Are susceptible to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
* Have hypertrophic scarring or keloids
* Have spider veins or a birthmark in the area they want to be treated
* Have a blood disorder e.g. sickle cell anemia, haemophilia or a platelet disorder
Whilst the above list is by no means exhaustive, it’ll give you a good idea of the types of scenarios that may prevent us from going ahead with a treatment. For some of the above, I may also ask that you provide written authorisation from your GP before we can proceed. You can also find more information on the NHS guide.
If any of these apply to you, let’s take a look at some in greater detail so you have a better idea of the specific contraindication and why it may prevent me from providing any form of semi-permanent makeup:
Blood pressure/heart conditions
Whilst this may not actually prevent you from being treated ,I may ask for written permission from your doctor first. I list this as a contraindication as it’s always best to be on the side of caution as I won't know the severity of your condition nor will I know what medication you’re taking. Furthermore, if you’ve suffered from mitral valve prolapse, have an artificial heart valve or have any condition that means you need to take prophylactic (intended to prevent disease) antibiotics, you’ll also have to take them prior to being treated.
Blood Thinners
Blood thinners (anticoagulants) such as aspirin or other forms of medication you’ve either bought over the counter (e.g herbal) or have been prescribed by a doctor, can increase the time it takes for the blood to clot. Bearing in mind that having semi/permanent makeup involves breaking the skin, it’s important that the time it takes for your blood to clot is within a reasonable timeframe. If not, you may experience increased bleeding time and higher than average bruising. Once again, this would require explicit consent from your GP before considering treating you. The more you bleed the harder it is for the pigment to stay implanted in the skin ,which means less pigment retention , which results in requiring more touch up appointments , which means more money. 
Taking Omega 3 fish oil supplements, this must be stopped 24hrs prior to your treatment 
Taking vitamin e supplements ,Vitamin E is meant to remove impurities in the skin , to your body the ink is an impurity. The vitamin E can actually remove ink from the skin causing spots and damage 
Diabetes
If you’re diabetic, it could lead to complications with the healing process and increase the risk of infection. If you have it under control , you may go ahead with the treatment but you may heal slower , so it’s important for you to keep up with the aftercare longer, take extra care of yourself and be patient .
Pregnancy/lactating
There are a couple of reasons why any semi-permanent makeup procedure should be postponed under these conditions. For starters, your skin tone can change slightly during pregnancy which can make it more difficult to achieve the desired results in the long-term. Secondly, whilst complications are extremely rare, if one did occur whilst pregnant, this can add an extra undesirable factor into the equation. For the sake of you and your baby, it’s always best to put off the procedure until after you’ve given birth and stopped lactating (breastfeeding).
Glaucoma
If you’re seeing me for semi-permanent eyeliner, the procedure involves some mild pressure around the eye area, which could complicate your condition further.
Herpes Simplex
People who suffer from ‘ fever blisters’ or cold sores are more susceptible to an outbreak after having treatments in and around their lips. Whilst this can be helped with antiviral medication, careful consideration should be taken before contacting us. You must also inform me if you decide to go ahead and contact me as i'll need to be fully informed to assess whether or not you’re able to be treated.
Skin conditions – Rashes, blisters, psoriasis, eczema etc.
Any skin condition such as the ones mentioned above can complicate things and can affect the overall long-term results of semi-permanent makeup. It doesn’t necessarily mean that you won’t be able to have your treatment , but i will need to discuss your condition in more detail prior to undertaking any treatment.
Keloid/Hypertrophic Scarring
As keloid/hypertrophic scarring is associated with adverse wound healing factors, you may not be a suitable candidate for microblading or any other form of semi/permanent makeup treatment as a uniform healing process without additional complications is more desirable. The same would apply if you were looking to have a permanent tattoo.
Cortisone steroids, Accutane, Retin-A or Renova
In case you’re not aware, the ongoing use of topical steroids can lead to a thinning of the skin, particularly if used long-term. For this reason, semi/permanent makeup isn’t recommended. If you’re only using topical steroids for a very short time, treatment is still possible afterwards provided some time has elapsed after your last application. If you’re using any of the above medications, please speak to your GP prior to contacting us.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Also known simply as hyperpigmentation, this often affects the facial area, particularly after the skin has been traumatised by certain procedures such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser treatments etc. This also applies to microblading and other forms of semi/permanent makeup and isn’t recommended.
Spider veins or birthmarks
If you have either of these in or around the area you’d like us to treat, it can be problematic so you’ll need to discuss this with me in more detail first. As there are treatments to remove the above if you really want to procedure .
Bleeding disorders
If you suffer from this type of condition (such as haemophilia) you’ll obviously be aware of the problem with your blood clotting. Similar to ‘blood thinning’ above, having any kind of semi-permanent makeup e.g. microblading involves puncturing the skin and the treatment will, therefore, most likely be unsuitable for you.
Compromised immune system
If you have any condition or are undergoing any treatment that can compromise your immune system, you MUST speak to your doctor first. A good immune system is important for the healing process to go smoothly so anything that puts this in jeopardy should be avoided.
Any treatment, medication, or illness that compromises the immune system/healing would NOT make you a good candidate for micropigmentation procedures.
CONCLUSION
I hope the above has given you more of an insight into the possible contraindications relating to microblading and semi/permanent makeup. As i've mentioned several times ,it really is a good idea to have an informal chat with your doctor if any of the above conditions apply to you. If you’ve already spoken to them about your intentions and they’ve indicated that they’re comfortable for you to go ahead.

Question 16

WILL I NEED TO SHAVE MY EYEBROWS OFF?

Accepted Answer

No! Microblade eyebrows are designed to enhance your existing brows to create a fuller, beautifully shaped natural look so you certainly won’t need to shave your eyebrows beforehand.

Question 17

WHAT IF I DON’T HAVE ANY NATURAL EYEBROWS?

Accepted Answer

Following on from the question above, there are several reasons you may have no eyebrows, or very thin, sparse brows. This can typically be the result of over-plucking, alopecia or chemotherapy treatment. Regardless of the circumstances, I can create natural looking brows where none exist and tailor the shape and colour to suit your desired look.

Question 18

IS THERE AN AFTERCARE REGIME I NEED TO FOLLOW?

Accepted Answer

You will find the post care regime document at the top of the page .

Question 19

I'VE HAD ANTI WRINKLES INJECTIONS  AND FILLER CAN I HAVE THE PROCEDURE ?

Accepted Answer

Yes after 2 weeks for anti wrinkles injections and 4 weeks for fillers.
I advise you to have your brows done before anti wrinkles injections  mainly if you have never had Anti wrinkles injections before , however if you are a common user of anti wrinkles injections , then this can be done no later than two weeks prior . After having your brows done , I would recommend to wait at least 2 weeks again unless you're a slow healer then wait up to 4 weeks. For lip tattooing wait 4 weeks before having any filler and the same after .

Question 20

I suffer from herpes simplex (cold sores) can I have my lips tattooed ?

Accepted Answer

Yes you can  but you must take antiviral medication 5 days prior and 5 days after your procedure to prevent the outbreak from happening . Note in some cases this doesn’t always work , so some pigment may potentially be lost if you have an outbreak. This is fixable in your follow up appointment.
The medication MUST be taken on both appointments. You can get these for your gp or by going online and ordering them from super drug  or the likes of medexpress.

Question 21

I have not had an outbreak of herpes simplex (cold sores) in years can I still have it done ?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You will still have to take antiviral medication . Please see the question above for more information. Any trauma to the lip area can cause the virus to surface and awaken.

Question 22

I’ve had microblading before. Can I have the machine method ?

Accepted Answer

Yes , ideally the more faded the brows the better result , so I may recommend some aloor removal first to create your desired look. A consultation for me to see your brows will be needed . Please book your consultation via the booking system for me to take a good look.

Question 23

I LOVE WORKING OUT AND GOING SWIMMING CAN I STILL DO THIS?

Accepted Answer

You can't work out for the first 3-4 days , especially whilst they are in the first period of healing , as the skin is still open and you will be at higher risk of infection and affecting your healed results. From day 4 onwards you may do light cardio and light weighted work , you just can't be hot and sweaty until healed. Swimming does not do this until healed . Once your healed, apply Vaseline over them before swimming is advised as chlorine can be a factor to premature fading.

Question 24

What Is Semi Permanent / Permanent Makeup?

Accepted Answer

Semi permanent/permanent makeup is an advanced form of tattooing, however I do not infuse the pigments, as deeply into the skin, so the results we achieve do not have the permanency of a conventional tattoo. 
The specialised techniques used for semi permanent makeup are also referred to as permanent cosmetics, permanent makeup, micropigmentation and cosmetic tattooing.

Jade Clay Hair & Makeup Artist

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